Well once again it’s a new year. Everybody is clamoring about New Year’s resolutions. I like to call them goals for the new year. Sometimes they are so hard to attain and I seem to be so hard on myself. So I started reading. How do people achieve resolutions or goals? Whatever you call them? It helped me to not be so hard on myself. Maybe you’ve heard about it or maybe you have not, what I’m talking about is the SMART Goal Method. I have shared it below with you. I hope it helps you not be so hard on yourself for 2024.
As the new year begins, people across the world will be looking to use this time to make fresh starts, implement changes, start resolutions, and more. The new year is an ideal time to make those changes you have been thinking about for a long time. They don’t even need to be resolutions; they are simply things you know will make your life better.
Not everyone feels the need or want to change things about themselves but are still looking for a fresh start or something new in their life. In this post I will share the Top 6 you can do in 2024 to begin that FRESH START It also seems to be the most questions asked from my readers on how to? ___ fill in the blank.
Goal/Resolutions/Intentions Setting
SMART goals are:
- Specific: Well defined, clear
- Measurable: measure your progress toward the accomplishment of the goal
- Achievable: Attainable and not impossible to achieve
- Realistic: Within reach, realistic, and relevant to your life purpose
- Timely: With a clearly defined timeline, including a starting date and a target date. The purpose is to create urgency.
Let’s begin to look at some easy and attainable areas that you can begin in 2024.
Declutter and Organize
It’s natural to accumulate lots of stuff over the years. But letting it build up can be damaging to your physical and mental health. Keeping a cluttered home clean and organized is infinitely harder than one with only what we need. If this sounds like you, put a decluttering plan into action to help you go through everything you own and repurpose it. Be it taking it to your local landfill if it’s of no use to anyone, selling it, recycling it, or donating it, be ruthless as you sort out your belongings and only keep the things you know you want and will use.
Housekeeping and Help Cleaning
If you are a busy parent or professional and have better things to do with your time than cleaning, then maybe you need to hire a cleaner. You can book a one time deep clean or have regular sessions each week or month if you stay on top of the mess and clutter this will give you a cleaner living space without the stress. A maid service can be the perfect way to de-escalate your stress and take a load off your plate this coming year. I am kind of spoiled that way, I have housekeeping every two weeks. It’s just nice to come home to a clean house, smelling so wonderful.
Decorate
If you’re feeling a bit blah about your home space and your home decor isn’t doing it for you anymore, you should consider making home changes or updates that can enhance you overall vibe. It can be something small like adding new decorative items or painting a feature wall; you can rearrange your furniture, repurpose rooms, or even carry out more significant changes such as a kitchen remodel kitchen remodel, extension, or undertaking a garage conversion; the possibilities are endless; whether you rent or own your home.
Relax and Read
This small change can make a huge difference, adding vibrancy to your life throughout the year. Besides being a top-notch entertainment source, did you know reading offers a treasure trove of health benefits?
Personally, I’ve traded TV time for a good book and weekends out for cozy tea sessions with a captivating novel. It might sound shy-introvert, but the joy it brings is incomparable. Plus, reading isn’t just about pleasure; it’s a mental workout that boosts empathy and sharpens your mind. How about spicing up your reading experience by joining a book club or creating your reading bucket list? It adds a whole new layer to the reading adventure!
Self Care for the Body and Soul
Creating a self-care routine as a New Year’s resolution is an excellent way to prioritize your well-being. Here are just a few a suggested self-care routine you might consider:
Mindfullness: could be meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few moments for reflection and setting positive intentions for the day.
Healthy Eating Habits: Focus on nourishing your body with balanced meals and staying hydrated throughout the day. Consider incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet.
Personal Time: Dedicate time for activities you enjoy. It could be reading, painting, playing music, or any hobby that brings you joy and relaxation.
Get Outside More
Even if it means standing in the doorway of your yard drinking your morning cuppa, make it a priority to get outside more or let more of the outside into your home. Don’t laugh at this, when I’m working, which is every day, I set my alarm on my phone in the morning, and in the afternoon, no matter the weather I step outside on the balcony for at least 15 minutes, practicing my breathing, and then just relaxing it makes such a difference.
You could also open up the windows more and letting fresh air in, inhaling deeply. Did you know that just an extra 10 minutes outdoors per day can boost your mental health, and adding in a brisk walk can boost your physical health, too.
Conclusion
As we step into this exciting new year, remember that resolutions don’t have to be grandiose changes; they can simply be small shifts that bring immense joy and improvement to our lives. Embrace the opportunity to declutter, revamp, and explore new horizons. Whether it’s organizing your space, adding a touch of creativity to your decor, or stepping outdoors for a breath of fresh air, these steps, no matter how small, contribute to a happier, more fulfilling life. Cheers to a wonderful year ahead filled with growth, laughter, and moments that truly matter!
I want to take this time to also say how much I appreciate your ongoing support and readership – you’re not just a reader, but a valued friend on my blogging journey! Your input means the world to me, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and ideas in the comment section below the post. Thank you for being a part of The City Cottage Family.
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